Saturday, 14 November 2009

Jazz Voice - Celebrating a Century of Song

Yes, this is generally a photography blog, but it is actually a pretty accurate reflection of what is happening in my world one way or another.

Last night I went to 'Jazz Voice - Celebrating a Century of song' at London's Barbican

I confess I'm by no means a Jazz aficionado (in fact the first full on Jazz gig I have been to!) the only reason I went was to see Natalie Merchant, the incredibly talented singer song writer , as it was her first appearance in London for 10 years. If you are not familiar with her work and would like to listen to something which takes you to some other magical place, do check out her music ( my favourite album of hers is 'Ophelia' )

Needless to say I, nor the rest of the capacity audience were disappointed

But like so many things in life, you go looking for one thing and you find quite another

PS Went to see her solo a couple of nights later at the delightful venue the Conway hall in London, which holds around 300 people. A more stunning intimate gig it is hard to imagine. Acoustic and soulful. Her new album is out in March and she will be touring the UK again, check her out if you have not done so already

I was bored one Saturday night and needed to practice some gig photography before I shot at a bigger venue. I spotted a sign saying that a Eagles tribute band were playing. Being cheeky I offered my services and offered a disc of images.

That night was the best night I have ever had. It was a small venue and the bands name was Talon.

I spoke to one of the fans who said that the Eagles regard them as the best tribute band to them in the world. They were not wrong, I didnt have a three song caveat and I shot them till halfway then I just stood there amazed at how good they were. At the intermission I saw the stage manager, he said he spotted me just watching, but not to worry about it as it happened before with another tog who got caught the same.

When you see music performed to its highest standard its a privilege.

I have stood two feet away from Myleene Klass as she played a piano and it felt like I had gone to heaven and she was just playing it for me.

I have noticed that quite a lot of togs are musically minded myself included.